Family and friends remember Somerset girl on what would have been her 13th birthday

Family and friends of a Somerset girl who tragically passed away gathered in her honor this weekend.

Selina Oehmen died on October 15, 2018 at 10 years old after a courageous battle with DIPG, an inoperable, terminal childhood brain cancer.

Selina was a sweet and sassy girl who loved softball, Girl Scouts, arts and crafts, musical theatre, marching band, playing her cello and helping out at her church as an altar server and in the faith formation program. Selina made friends easily and was a 5th grader at North Elementary. Her smile and laughter could brighten any room. Selina had dreamed of being a scientist or art teacher someday. Her strength and grace in the face of her illness was truly an inspiration.

Friends and family remembered a girl that cannot be forgotten on what would have been her 13th birthday.

A time that should have been a celebration instead was a remembrance.

Selina’s parents, Ken and Michelle Oehmen, organized a butterfly release to honor her life. Each person participating released a butterfly at Selina’s graveside at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Somerset.

Due to the anticipated rain on Sunday, Selina’s actual birthday, a release also took place on Saturday in addition to Sunday.

Melissa McDonald was one of the participants at the ceremony.

“I love the family and all that they do to remember Selina’s beautiful soul. It was such a beautiful moment to be able to share with the family.”

The Oehmens hold events and fundraisers throughout the year to help find a cure for DIPG.